Law enforcement gears up for Mayan calendar festivities

Wednesday

Dec 19, 2012 at 12:39 PMDec 19, 2012 at 12:42 PM

The Siskiyou County Sheriff's Office urges visitors to take precautionary measures

SISKIYOU COUNTY – As tourists travel the icy roads to Siskiyou County for Mayan calendar and Winter Solstice events, local law enforcement officials have been meeting to discuss safety precautions, stated a press release issued by the Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO).

As Mount Shasta area motels fill up, the SCSO recently held joint meetings with the Mount Shasta Police Department (MSPD) and United States Forest Service (USFS) to discuss the upcoming gatherings and events scheduled in the Mount Shasta area on Dec. 21.

“This means more crowds and traffic will be encountered on Everett Memorial Highway and other highways and roads in the Mount Shasta area,” stated the release. “Weather reports indicate several inches of snow will fall before Friday, which will create hazardous driving conditions and potentially challenging environmental conditions in the Mount Shasta area.”

Considering these potentially hazardous environmental conditions, the SCSO would like to remind all motorists and outdoor enthusiasts to be careful during this time of the year and to take extra precautions to avoid mishap during the holiday season.

The release warns visitors to expect cold weather, freezing conditions, snow, fog, rain, ice and hazardous roadways, especially in higher elevations. Major storms can last for several days in duration and reduced visibility, high winds and damage to power lines and trees often create additional roadway hazards.

Often times, blizzard-like conditions are encountered in the area and intermittently on all mountain passes and area roadways, especially at higher elevations. Rain in the winter can be particularly hazardous when mixed with snow and ice and area roadways can turn into sheets of ice. Even dryer-appearing roadways may, due to freezing temperatures, yield “black ice” especially on bridges, curves and underpasses, the release stated.

The SCSO offers the following tips while traveling in severe weather conditions: • Always drive after plenty of rest and do not drink and drive or operate a vehicle after consuming medication in violation of a physician’s or pharmacist’s advice. • Use safety belts and ensure children are restrained with the appropriate child safety seat or seat belt.• During inclement weather, allow extra time to get to the destination and always drive at a speed safe for prevailing traffic conditions. One should always allow extra distance between vehicles during winter months, especially when the roadway is wet or icy. • Use caution when enjoying outdoor winter activities. Frostbite and hypothermia can occur without warning and it is important to hydrate, even when the temperature is cold. Always dress warmly and layer to provide maximum comfort and warmth. Be sure to use proper footwear and headwear for protection from the elements. • When traveling in a vehicle – even for short trips but especially when traversing local freeways or county roads – always carry extra warm clothing in case of an emergency. Carry a warm coat, winter boots, gloves, hats, blankets, water, a flashlight, food, a first aid kit, flares and at least one reliable communication device when driving, even for short distances. • One should always ensure his or her vehicle is in good running order and check tires, the spare tire, windshield wipers, belts and fluids. It is recommended to always travel with at least one-half tank of gas and a full tank if traveling long distances. • Always travel with at least one other person if recreating in the area and one should always make sure a responsible person knows where he or she is, the route and when he or she plans to return. • Always observe and follow regulatory and precautionary signs and never venture into areas closed to the public during the winter season. • Carry tire traction devices (chains) at all times, even if driving a 4-wheel drive vehicle. It is the law and they may be needed. In addition, carry a small shovel in the trunk or bed of a pick-up in case snowy conditions cause one’s vehicle to become stuck. • Stay informed and current on local weather conditions and if possible, stay home during major storms. • Remember to report impaired drivers by dialing 9-1-1. Any other non-emergency unsafe roadway or environmental conditions should be reported to the California Highway Patrol (CHP) by calling 841-6000. Routine information from the SCSO may be obtained by calling the 24-hour dispatch number at 841-2900.

“We hope everyone enjoys a very joyous and safe holiday season. The weather and environmental conditions will pose some challenges for all of us and we are asking everyone residing here or visiting Siskiyou County to help make this the safest winter season on record,” stated Sheriff Jon Lopey in the release. “On behalf of the department we thank you for your cooperation and support for us and all public safety agencies working during the holidays to help ensure your safety and the welfare of the citizens we serve. Again, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.”